“She Played With the Guys!” — Viral Footage Shows WNBA’s Sophie Cunningham Suited Up for Men’s Varsity Football, and Social Media Can’t Believe It
In a moment that’s taken the internet by storm, fans and critics alike are doing a double take after old footage of Sophie Cunningham playing for her high school’s men’s varsity football team resurfaced online. Known today as a fierce competitor in the WNBA and one of the Phoenix Mercury’s most intense personalities, Sophie is once again proving that she’s been breaking boundaries long before she stepped onto a professional basketball court.
A Blast From the Past That’s Shocking Everyone
The video, which shows a younger Cunningham donning full football gear and fearlessly competing against boys, has gone viral across TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Many fans were unaware that before becoming a pro basketball star, Sophie was making history by being one of the few girls to play varsity football at a high level.
The clip not only displays her athleticism and grit but also speaks volumes about her competitive spirit — something fans of her fiery on-court presence already know well.
“Of course Sophie Cunningham played football with the boys. Makes perfect sense now,” wrote one user on X.
“No wonder she’s such a beast on the court — she was out there tackling guys in high school!” another fan added.
A Career Built on Grit and Breaking Norms
Cunningham, who played college ball at Mizzou and went on to be drafted into the WNBA in 2019, has never shied away from the physical side of sports. Her aggressive style and willingness to stand her ground have drawn both admiration and criticism — but no one can deny her passion.
This newly uncovered footage only adds to her legend. For many, it’s a reminder that her toughness wasn’t born in the WNBA — it was forged on high school football fields, surrounded by opponents twice her size.
Why It Matters
In a world where women in sports still fight for visibility and respect, moments like this resonate beyond the viral clicks. Sophie’s story isn’t just about a throwback clip — it’s about challenging gender norms, pushing limits, and showing young girls everywhere that their place can be wherever they want it to be, even on a football field.
💬 Final Thought:
Sophie Cunningham has always been a fighter — on the court, on the field, and now in the hearts of fans everywhere. That old footage isn’t just history — it’s a message: She’s been defying expectations from day one.